Somalia, AU forces seeking to ease Bulobarde blockade

BELEDWEYNE, Somalia, March 21, 2015 (Garowe Online)-Somali government forces along with African Union peacekeepers are advancing on Al Shabaab-blockaded Hiran region town of Bulobarde of central Somalia according to officials, Garowe Online reports.

Hiran Governor Abdifatah Hassan Afrah who is spearheading efforts to pacify the main road leading from Beledweyne to Bulobarde told the media on Saturday that they are aiming to lift economic blockade by Al Shabaab militants of Bulobarde-something that marks attempt at the alleviation of locals plight for the first time in a year since Al Shabaab sanctions.

Allied forces are said to have faced little resistance from militants on their way from Beledweyne to Buq Aqable vicinity, 60km west of Beledweyne.

Government officials also say, convoy carrying food aid is accompanying Somali government forces and AU peacekeepers.

Djiboutian battalions have been in control of the Bulo Barde since March 2014 when allied forces liberated the town in intense onslaught.  

In August, 2014 residents protested against the year-long blockade, urging Mogadishu-based central government to provide them with food and address their basic needs. 

GAROWE ONLINE